died 1705
John Ray (1627-1705) was an English naturalist and botanist, widely regarded as one of the founding figures of modern natural history. He is known for his work in classifying plants and animals, as well as for his significant contributions to the study of ecology and the concept of species. Ray's notable publications include "The Wisdom of God Manifested in the Works of Creation" and "Historia Plantarum," which laid the groundwork for modern taxonomy.